Spain secured their place in the Euro 2024 semifinals on Friday by defeating the hosts, Germany, in a dramatic match that ended 1-1 in regular time, with Mikel Merino scoring the decisive goal in the 119th minute.
This success extended Spain’s winning streak to seven consecutive matches and brought joyous scenes for Luis de la Fuente’s team, writes Gazeta Express.
During this period, Spain has displayed an efficient attack, but their strong defense deserves most of the praise. “La Roja” have conceded only one goal from opponents in this championship and have not allowed more than one goal in any of these seven victories.
With this defensive record, Spain enters the semifinal clash against France with full confidence, especially as they have managed to hold “Les Bleus” to one goal or less in seven of their last eight encounters.
This confidence may grow even more considering France’s lackluster attacking form during the tournament. They edged past Portugal in a tense goalless match, where Theo Hernández scored the winning penalty in the shootout after João Félix of Portugal had missed.
It is surprising that France has reached the semifinals without scoring a single goal from open play. A converted penalty and two own goals constitute the “Roosters’” offensive tally.
Coach Didier Deschamps acknowledged that his team needs to improve in attack following the victory; however, his reputation as a winner continues to grow.
He was appointed manager in 2012 and could reach his fourth major final out of six possible if his team wins again, keeping alive his aim to become the second person, after Germany’s Berti Vogts, to win a European Championship as both a player and a coach.
